Are you ready to welcome spring with a vibrant and healthy meal? This Spring Vegetable Soup is the perfect way to celebrate the season's bounty! Packed with fresh, seasonal vegetables and bursting with flavor, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal. It's one of those easy recipes that's both healthy and satisfying, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients: A Rainbow of Spring Vegetables
This recipe is easily adaptable – feel free to substitute vegetables based on your preferences and what’s in season. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
This homemade cooking adventure is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps for a delicious, healthy meal.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Add Garlic and Vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the asparagus, peas, green beans, and broccoli. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften slightly.
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Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (undrained). Add the oregano and basil. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
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Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips and Variations: Making it Your Own
- For a creamier soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
- Add protein: Cooked chicken, chickpeas, or lentils would make this a heartier meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This delicious and healthy meal provides a good source of vitamins and fiber. Nutritional values will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 5-7 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 5-7 grams
This spring vegetable soup is a perfect example of delicious dishes you can easily make at home. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the fresh flavors of spring while creating a healthy and satisfying meal. This recipe proves that healthy meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Enjoy!